Why is this medication prescribed?

Daliresp (roflumilast) is a medication primarily prescribed for the management of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults with chronic bronchitis and a history of exacerbations. It belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors.

COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by restricted airflow, inflammation, and mucus production, which can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Daliresp helps reduce inflammation in the lungs, which can improve breathing and reduce the risk of COPD exacerbations.

How should this medicine be used?

Daliresp (roflumilast) is usually taken orally as a tablet, typically once daily. Here are some general guidelines for using Daliresp:

• Dosage: The typical dosage is one 500-microgram tablet per day, taken with food. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment.
• Timing: It’s generally recommended to take Daliresp at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet before swallowing, as this can alter the medication’s effectiveness.
• With Food: Taking Daliresp with food can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. It’s typically recommended to take it with a meal or snack.
• Consistency: Take Daliresp regularly, even if you feel well. It works best when maintained at a constant level in your body.
• Follow Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking Daliresp without consulting your healthcare provider first.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Some medications may interact with Daliresp, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your response to Daliresp and adjust your dosage as needed. Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure proper management of your condition.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Daliresp, such as nausea, diarrhea, headache, and weight loss. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects.
• Storage: Store Daliresp at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using Daliresp or if you experience any unexpected symptoms while taking the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Daliresp (roflumilast) is primarily prescribed for the management of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults with chronic bronchitis and a history of exacerbations. However, there are no other approved medical uses for Daliresp beyond COPD management.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions, here are some important considerations to keep in mind when taking Daliresp:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to roflumilast or any other ingredients in Daliresp.
• Medical History: Before taking Daliresp, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of mental health disorders, liver disease, or weight loss.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of using Daliresp if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The effects of Daliresp on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well-studied, so your healthcare provider will help you weigh the potential risks and benefits.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Daliresp may interact with certain drugs. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Liver Function: Daliresp is metabolized by the liver, so it’s crucial to monitor liver function regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease.
• Psychiatric Effects: Some patients may experience psychiatric side effects while taking Daliresp, such as mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts. If you notice any concerning changes in mood or behavior, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Weight Loss: Daliresp may cause weight loss in some patients. If you experience significant or unintentional weight loss while taking Daliresp, inform your healthcare provider.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Common side effects of Daliresp include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Taking Daliresp with food can help reduce these gastrointestinal side effects.
• Smoking Cessation: While Daliresp is used to manage COPD symptoms, it is not a substitute for smoking cessation. If you smoke, it’s essential to discuss smoking cessation strategies with your healthcare provider.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Daliresp and address any concerns or side effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations when taking Daliresp, and do not adjust your dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting them first.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Daliresp. However, taking Daliresp with food can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to take Daliresp with a meal or snack.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Daliresp, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Daliresp (roflumilast) can cause a range of side effects, which may vary in severity from person to person. Common side effects include:

• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach is one of the most common side effects of Daliresp.
• Diarrhea: Some people may experience diarrhea while taking Daliresp.
• Headache: Headaches are another common side effect reported by some individuals.
• Weight Loss: Daliresp may cause weight loss in some patients, although this is not experienced by everyone.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep may occur in some individuals taking Daliresp.
• Back Pain: Back pain is another potential side effect associated with Daliresp.
• Decreased Appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite while taking Daliresp.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded may occur in some patients.
• Depression or Mood Changes: In some cases, Daliresp can cause or exacerbate symptoms of depression or other mood changes.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Rarely, Daliresp may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in individuals with a history of depression or other mental health disorders.
• Respiratory Tract Infections: Some individuals may experience respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, while taking Daliresp.
• Tremor: Shaking or tremors in the hands or other parts of the body may occur in some individuals.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another potential side effect of Daliresp.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience any concerning or persistent side effects while taking Daliresp, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about the side effects of Daliresp, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Daliresp (roflumilast) tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
• Avoid storing Daliresp in the bathroom or kitchen, where it might be exposed to moisture or heat.
• Do not use Daliresp beyond the expiration date printed on the label or packaging.

Disposal:

• Dispose of expired or unused Daliresp tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush Daliresp down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on how to safely dispose of medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
• If possible, bring the medication container or packaging to the emergency room to assist healthcare providers in treating the overdose.
• Symptoms of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Daliresp, including dentists and specialists.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
• Do not share Daliresp with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and any other recommendations for managing your condition.
• Be aware that Daliresp is not a rescue medication for sudden breathing problems. It should be taken regularly as prescribed, even if you feel well.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Daliresp or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.

By following these guidelines, you can safely store, dispose of, and manage Daliresp, as well as be prepared in case of emergencies or overdose situations.